5 Best Easy Hikes in Big Sky, Montana

Hello again! Big Sky, Montana is a gorgeous place to spend time outdoors. It is one of my favorite places to hike, and there are so many amazing hiking trails! In today’s post I will be sharing my favorite, easy hikes in Big Sky.

Sound good?

It gets better! All of these hikes are seven miles and under. They are perfect for those who love short hikes with great views. And, in addition, these hikes are family friendly!

The hikes I’ve included in this post range in difficulty and length, but each one is beautiful and enjoyable.

I’ve included hikes that are suitable (and fun!) for a variety of ages and athletic abilities, and there is definitely something for everyone. Keep reading to discover the 5 best easy hikes in Big Sky, Montana!

Note: If long, intense hikes are your thing, don’t worry! There are lots of hiking options in Big Sky and the surrounding areas. Additionally, many hikes on this list can be extended to fit your abilities and hiking need.

Super Easy Hikes

Kircher Trail

Kircher Trail is super short, only about .6 miles round trip, so it’s more like a walking trail. However, I’m including it because it’s a great trail for kids and older adults. This is a perfect family hiking trail!

Kircher Trail leads to a play structure for children, as well as a shaded picnic area and a stream for fishing.

Once you’re at the base of the trail, there are also additional small trails through the woods for exploring. This walk is a great option for families, as there is a plenty to do and see. For more information, including parking info, click here.

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Easy Hiking Trails in Big Sky

Ousel Falls

Ousel Falls is a beautiful hiking trail (+ waterfall!) located in the center of Big Sky. The hike itself is relatively easy, and is about 1.6 miles total.

Throughout the hike you’ll be walking in the woods, crossing bridges and working your way to the waterfall. There are multiple different paths on this hike, all of which lead to different parts of the waterfall. It is fun to check out all of the different paths to see where they lead.

Ousel Falls is definitely one of my favorite hikes. It is a great hike for couples, friends, and families!

For directions to Ousel Falls, and more information about the hike, click here!

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Moderate Hikes in Big Sky

Uplands Trail

Uplands Trail is a 2 mile trail located in Big Sky town center. I love that Uplands is located next to many other hiking trails, such as Hummocks Trail, Ralph’s Pass, and South Fork Loop giving you many trail choices to choose from in the area.

Uplands Trail offers beautiful views of Big Sky, and walking through the open field is a fun experience.

There isn’t much shade on this trail, as you’re mostly out in an open field on a hill, so bring sunscreen and a hat.

Once you get to the loop portion of the trail, you’ll have the option to continue onto Ralph’s Pass, a trail that will extend your hike by about 5 miles. This is a great option for those who are looking for a more difficult hike in Big Sky.

If you don’t want to take Ralph’s Pass, continue on the Uplands Trail loop, and you’ll arrive back at your starting point. For more information about Uplands Trail, click here.

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Huckleberry Trail at Big Sky Resort

For those who are interested, Big Sky Resort offers private guided hikes on their mountain hiking trails. Of course, you can also take these hikes without guides, if you prefer. For this guided hike you’ll book online, ride up the Explorer chairlift, and hike down the mountain trail. I love this hike because you get to enjoy a beautiful scenic chairlift ride!

A one hour guided hike for two is $57, and a two hour hike is $95. This is a very good deal if you are planning on hiking at Big Sky Resort and using their chairlift to ride up the mountain.

If you choose to do a self guided hike, and still want to use the lift, you’ll need to purchase a day-long chairlift pass (they don’t do one-time rides), which are $31-$41 per person, depending on the day. This day-long ticket will allow you to ride up, and hike down, as many times as you like throughout the day! You can also ride up and back down on the Swift Current lift, if you get tired of hiking but still want to enjoy the outdoors.

Finally, you can also choose to hike up and down, and if you choose this option you do not need to purchase any tickets. This, of course, if the most intensive hiking option.

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Beehive Basin

Beehive Basin is a 7 mile round trip hike that leads to a beautiful mountain top lake (where you can fish!)

This is one of the most popular hikes in Big Sky, and when hiking it you’ll definitely understand why!

On this hike, you gain around 1,000 feet of elevation, so it is a bit more intensive, especially for those who struggle with high altitudes. Be sure to bring lots of water and snacks, and I highly recommend having a picnic when you reach the top.

This hike offers amazing views, and there are also tons of beautiful wild flowers throughout the journey. Additionally, you may even see some wildlife! When I hiked this trail I saw a moose, and that was a great surprise. Of course, it goes without saying, but do not approach wildlife on the trails.

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Well, there you have it! These five, easy hikes in Big Sky are all great options that offer beautiful views, without requiring a full day of hiking.

These hikes are the perfect activity to add to your day in Big Sky and are sure to be a lot of fun.

If you have any questions, or want us to add another hike to this list, let us known the comments below!

Lastly, share this post with someone you know who is visiting the Big Sky area.

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For more ideas for things to do in Big Sky, check out my recommendations for the 8 best things to do in Big Sky, Montana! Also, be sure to check out the five best day trips from Big Sky!

♡Kate